June 13, 2010

Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski will have control over any possible trades that the White Sox want to include him in when his 10-and-5 rights kick in at 11 p.m. CT Sunday.

A number of teams have called the White Sox about Pierzynski’s availability. However, MLB sources say there is nothing that appears imminent at this time.

The Texas Rangers have had the most interest in Pierzynski over the last six weeks. Ten-and-5 rights (10 years in the majors, five with their current team) let Major League players control their destiny, giving them veto powers on any trade scenario.

It’s rare that the Sox draft a high school middle infielder as high as the 11th round, but they’re making a serious effort to sign Chaparral (Ariz.) shortstop James McDonald. McDonald said that he’s not sure whether to start his professional career or fulfill a scholarship offer from Arizona State. “I’m weighing a few things right now,” McDonald said. McDonald recently graduated from the same school that produced Paul Konerko.